Dr. Craig Brockunier, MD

Dr. Craig Brockunier, MD is a Psychiatrist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Psychiatric care. He practices at his clinic in Jacksonville, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). General Psychiatrists are your primary partners in preventive mental healthcare, diagnosing and managing mental health disorders through medication and therapy, preventing relapse through proactive long-term care plans, coordinating crucial screenings, and fostering overall wellness to empower your journey to lasting mental health. He serves individuals of all ages and is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine. Please call (904) 470-6900 to confirm if Dr. Brockunier is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Craig Brockunier, MD is a psychiatrist in Jacksonville, FL with over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from St. Georges University School of Medicine in 1984 and is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. With over 40 years of dedicated experience in Psychiatric care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is deeply committed to creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. Dr. Brockunier provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Craig Brockunier is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Craig Brockunier can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Craig Brockunier provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Psychosis: Psychosis is characterized by hallucinations and delusions, and proactive care including medication and therapy significantly reduces the likelihood of these symptoms recurring.
• Chronic Depression (Dysthymia): Chronic depression, or dysthymia, is a persistent low mood that can significantly impact daily life, making early detection and consistent treatment crucial for preventing long-term health problems.
• Schizophreniform and Schizoaffective Disorder: Schizophreniform and schizoaffective disorders can be effectively managed with early detection, proper medication, and supportive therapy, minimizing the risk of future episodes and promoting mental well-being.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious condition that can develop after a traumatic event, and early intervention with a mental health professional can significantly reduce long-term complications and improve your quality of life.
• Mood Disorders (Dysthymia and Cyclothymia): By actively monitoring your moods and seeking professional help when necessary, you can prevent mild mood disorders like dysthymia and cyclothymia from escalating into more severe and chronic conditions.
• Nondependent Drug and Alcohol Abuse: By addressing non-dependent substance use, you can proactively protect your mental and physical health and avoid future problems related to addiction.
• Anxiety: Recognizing the signs of anxiety and seeking professional help promptly helps prevent long-term mental health challenges and improves your quality of life.
• ADHD and-or ADD: Addressing ADHD and/or ADD symptoms early can significantly reduce the risk of developing co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use disorders.
• Nondependent Alcohol Abuse: Even if you don't think you have a drinking problem, excessive alcohol use can negatively impact your mental and physical health; recognizing and addressing nondependent alcohol abuse early can prevent long-term health issues.
• Nondependent Cocaine Abuse: Addressing nondependent cocaine abuse early on helps avoid the progression to more severe addiction and associated negative consequences.
• Psychosis Due to Mental Illness: Early detection and treatment of psychosis, often linked to other mental illnesses, are crucial to prevent debilitating complications and improve long-term well-being.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: Schizoaffective disorder combines features of schizophrenia and mood disorders, so proactive monitoring and consistent treatment are crucial to prevent the worsening of symptoms and potential crises.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Craig Brockunier offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: Empower yourself on your path to wellness with a screening for alcohol or substance misuse; this preventative measure helps detect and address issues before they escalate.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: Invest in your future by getting screened for dementia and depression; early intervention can help prevent debilitating symptoms and preserve cognitive function.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: Take charge of your mental well-being with a psychiatric evaluation; it's a crucial step in early diagnosis and treatment of potential mental health disorders.
• Psychological Evaluation: This comprehensive assessment helps screen for various mental health disorders, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment, ultimately minimizing potential long-term effects.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: Before bariatric surgery, a psychological evaluation helps identify any mental health conditions that could affect your recovery and ensures you're well-supported throughout the process.
• Internal Family Systems Therapy: Take a proactive role in your mental health journey with Internal Family Systems therapy, a method designed to foster self-compassion and harmony within, reducing the likelihood of relapse.
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate brain activity, helping to alleviate depression symptoms and prevent relapse.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Psychiatrists in Florida.

Dr. Craig Brockunier is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• A patient, through consistent therapy and medication, significantly reduced the likelihood of psychosis symptoms returning, gaining a sense of control and peace of mind. This proactive approach allowed them to focus on their well-being and future goals.
• Recognizing early warning signs and developing a proactive treatment plan, a patient successfully managed their chronic depression, regaining control over their daily life and fostering a sense of optimism for the future.
• By actively participating in their treatment plan, including consistent medication and therapy, a patient successfully managed their symptoms, significantly reducing the risk of future episodes and maintaining a positive outlook on life.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Psychiatric care with Dr. Craig Brockunier:

What is a Psychiatrist, and how are they different from a Psychologist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in mental health. They are uniquely qualified to prescribe and manage medications, in addition to providing therapy. Psychologists are experts in psychotherapy and testing, but they do not prescribe medication.

What can I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Craig Brockunier?

Your first visit with Dr. Brockunier will involve a comprehensive medical and psychiatric assessment. This will cover your medical history, symptoms, and life circumstances to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. This is the first step in developing a holistic treatment plan, which may include medication, therapy, or both.

Do I have to take medication if I see a psychiatrist?

Dr. Brockunier will discuss all treatment options, including psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. Medication is a collaborative decision, recommended only when it is the most effective tool for improving your quality of life and preventing symptoms from worsening.

How do you diagnose ADHD in adults?

Dr. Brockunier's comprehensive evaluation for adult ADHD goes beyond a simple checklist. It includes a detailed interview about lifelong symptoms, a review of school and work history, and standardized rating scales. This thorough approach ensures an accurate diagnosis, vital for developing an effective treatment plan to prevent life impairment.

Do you offer telepsychiatry (virtual) appointments?

Yes, Dr. Brockunier offers telepsychiatry appointments. This allows for convenient and accessible care, including medication management, from the comfort and privacy of your home via secure video.

What is the medical approach to treating addiction?

Dr. Brockunier's approach to addiction treatment is a comprehensive medical model. This includes FDA-approved medications, like Suboxone® or Vivitrol®, to manage cravings and prevent relapse. He combines these medical interventions with counseling and support to optimize long-term recovery.

How can medication help prevent a relapse of my depression or bipolar disorder?

Psychiatric medications, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers, help correct chemical imbalances in the brain, creating a foundation of stability. This allows you to fully engage in therapy and utilize your coping skills, significantly reducing the risk of relapse. Consistent treatment is a key factor in preventing future episodes.

What is a 'dual diagnosis'?

A "dual diagnosis" means having both a substance use disorder, such as alcohol addiction, and another mental health condition, like depression, at the same time. Dr. Brockunier is trained to treat both conditions simultaneously, as integrated treatment is key to successful, long-term recovery.

6900 Southpoint Dr N
Jacksonville FL 32216
Phone: (904) 470-6900

Dr. Craig Brockunier, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1558378190

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Psychiatrists like Dr. Craig Brockunier are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your psychiatrist about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.